Thiruvananthapuram, July 20: With the southwest monsoon intensifying in Kerala, the Indian Metrological Department (IMD) sounded a "Red alert" in Kasargod district for today, warning of rain in excess of 20 cm. The IMD also issued an "Orange alert" for Idukki, Kannur, Kozhikode, Malappuram and Wayanad. A "Yellow alert" has also been issued for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Palakkad districts.

The IMD sounded a "Red alert" in Kozhikode and Wayanad, and "Orange alert" for Malappuram and Kannur districts for July 21. A "Red alert" has also been issued for Wayanad and Kozhikode districts for July 22. Several parts of Kerala have been receiving heavy rainfall since last two days. One shutter of Kallarkutty Dam situated in Idukki district has been opened following heavy rains in the catchment area. Monsoon 2019: IMD Predicts Nationwide 'Normal' Rainfall For June to September Period.

According to the IMD website, some places in Kozhikode and Idukki districts recorded around 14 cm rainfall in the past 24 hours ended at 8.30 am Friday. Some places in Malappuram, Thrissur, Ernakulam and Kottayam districts received rainfall of over 12 cm, it said. Landslides were reported in the Ettumanoor-Peerumedu Road which was cleared by the authorities concerned within an hour, after which it was opened for traffic.

The State Disaster Management Authority has asked all the departments to open control rooms at Taluk headquarters. Meanwhile, four fishermen who went to sea from Vizhinjam in Thiruvananthapuram district have not yet returned. Their whereabouts remained unknown. Coastal police officials told PTI the sea was rough, making it difficult to conduct search operations.

Heavy rains affected pilgrimage in Pathanamthitta district. Pilgrims visiting the famous Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala have been facing difficulties due to incessant rain. The temple is opened for the five-day monthly pooja.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 20, 2019 09:41 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).